KANSAS CITY - Tony La Russa dismisses the inevitability of his 2,500th career managerial win. Never mind that only Connie Mack and John McGraw have crossed the threshold before him. Yet La Russa joins Hall of Fame company if the Cardinals complete a three-game sweep of the Kansas City Royals today at the much-improved “new” Kauffman Stadium.

La Russa is managing a shorter bench than usual since infielder Brendan Ryan continues to experience leg cramps that chased him from Saturday’s eighth inning. The skipper considers it a significant issue since the club re-enters NL play tomorrow in New York.

Otherwise, La Russa will attempt to win No. 2,500 with much the same lineup that took down 2,499. One big difference: Albert Pujols will serve as DH with Chris Duncan moving to first base. Today marks Little Dunc’s third start at the position this season.

The Rest:

2B Skip Schumaker

CF Colby Rasmus

DH Albert Pujols

RF Ryan Ludwick

1B Chris Duncan

C Yadier Molina

LF Rick Ankiel

3B Khalil Greene

SS Tyler Greene

ROYALS

LF David DeJesus

SS WIllie Bloomquist

1B Billy Butler

DH Mike Jacobs

RF Jose Guillen

3B Mike Teahen

C Miguel Olivo

2B Tug Hulett

 CF Mitch Maier